A multiracial drummer in Vienna: Aleksandro Alcantara Mulaosmanovic

  *This interview, conducted by Eylül Aşkın, was first published in Turkish on 23.10.2022 on the online art platform sosyeteart.com. https://sosyeteart.com/index.php/2022/10/23/viyanada-melez-bir-baterist-aleksandro-alcantara-mulaosmanovic/

Today, we're with drummer Aleksandro Alcantara Mulaosmanovic, an active local musician in Vienna.

How did your interest in music begin? How did the decision-making process for a career in music unfold?

My interest in music began at the age of 6 or 7. Around 15-16, I had some friends who gave me CDs of bands like Metallica and Iron Maiden to listen to. Motivated, I started playing the guitar and, at the age of 14, formed a simple music group. Meanwhile, I played the drums until I was 16. At that age, I realized that drums were my true instrument, and I focused on them. Later on, I studied Jazz, and currently, I mostly earn a living through music.

You graduated from the Vienna Prayner Conservatory Jazz Department. What was the major factor behind choosing drums as your instrument?

As I mentioned earlier, even though I started playing the drums at the age of 14, it wasn't until I was 16 that I realized playing the drums defined me, and I simply wanted to focus on drumming. I have a deep passion for rhythm; it's what makes me who I am.

When did you first step onto the stage, and how did you feel?

My first time on stage was at an open-air blues festival in 2006. There were about 10,000 spectators, and initially, it was both thrilling and intimidating. However, after the second song, I experienced one of the most beautiful moments of my life.

One of your parents is Mexican, the other is Bosnian-Herzegovinian. However, you studied and continue to work and live in Austria. How has this multicultural background influenced your music?

My roots and connection to different music genres and traditional styles have had a significant impact on my musical journey so far and continue to do so. Currently, I'm recording my own album, consisting of 10 songs. It's a blend of Jazz and Rock, with noticeable Latin and Balkan influences in every track.

What are the projects you've actively participated in so far? Currently, which groups and musicians are you collaborating with?

I'm involved with a blues rock band called Hangover Division, a country rock and rock 'n' roll group named Midnight Creek, and I'm working on my own music and a couple of surprises :) Additionally, I frequently play drums in the Vienna concerts of Mexican singer and songwriter Paco Acustico.

What is your most utopian professional dream? What are your future aspirations?

My goal is to keep playing without ever giving up—making music, sharing it with people, enjoying the music I create, and witnessing others derive pleasure from it. While we all dream of reaching great heights and fame at some point, the most important thing for me is that people appreciate what I do. Hopefully, in the long run, I'll reach a broader audience :)

Who are the drummers that influence, impress, and inspire you in your style?

I could talk about this for days, as I believe every globally renowned drummer has a message and a lesson to offer us. However, if I have to mention a few names: Dennis Chambers, Joey Jordison, and Roy Mayorga.

What genre do you enjoy playing the most?

I derive immense pleasure from playing Hardcore/Punk, Metal, and Funk.

What can you tell us about the general perspective on music in Europe and globally?

It's a topic that could be discussed for hours, but generally, I feel that true music hasn't been as appreciated in recent years. Electronic music and trends often take the forefront, and shows are designed with only about thirty percent focusing on the music itself. Of course, quality music is still being created, but unfortunately, it's not as popular as it was 20-30 years ago.

Are there other art forms that interest you besides music?

I'm interested in interior design and media design—both activities bring me a lot of joy. I'm also intrigued by robot technology, although I can't claim to be highly skilled in that area. 🙂

 If I were to ask about your happiest and most painful moments?

There are many moments in life that bring me happiness. Getting news from friends, meeting up with them, witnessing someone achieve their goals, or encountering individuals who find joy in life—all of these moments make me happy. However, I'd say the happiest moment I remember was when I got my dog five years ago. The most painful moment, on the other hand, was not being able to see my grandmother for years, then receiving news of her passing and being unable to attend her funeral.

Where can our readers reach you on social media?

You can reach me and explore my work on Instagram and Spotify. 

My official Instagram: @aleksandro_alcantara

You can also reach me through the Instagram pages of the groups I collaborate with:

@hangoverdivision

@midnightcreek

@elpacoacustico